Spain has secured a spot in the World Cup semi-finals, defeating Belgium 2-1, thanks to a decisive late goal from Mikel Merino. This victory marks only the second time Spain has reached the last four of the tournament, with their previous appearance in 2010 culminating in a trophy win.
Merino, who came off the bench, scored in the 88th minute. His goal followed a rebound from a shot by Dani Olmo that was initially parried by Belgium’s backup goalkeeper, Senne Lammens. This marks Merino’s second consecutive game scoring a crucial goal as a substitute, having also netted in stoppage time during Spain’s 1-0 victory over Portugal in the last-16.
Merino’s Impactful Return
Merino’s journey to becoming a key player for Spain at the World Cup was uncertain just months ago. In January, he suffered an unusual foot injury, a stress fracture, which sidelined him and cast doubt on his participation in the tournament. He was only able to return to action a month before the World Cup began.
Despite these setbacks, Merino not only made the squad but has proven to be an invaluable asset. Spain’s coach, Luis de la Fuente, praised Merino, stating, “He has many qualities. He is a player that across the whole World Cup could have played in whatever team and done great. For us he is the standard of this idea, of this model. It is a pleasure to have him, and others but especially him. We know that without fail he is always there.”
Merino himself reflected on his recovery, saying, “The fact of being here a few months ago was unthinkable. Now I am, as I said before, at the highest point, enjoying one of the happiest moments of my career.”
Former England striker Wayne Rooney noted Merino’s ability to deliver in critical moments, stating, “Merino is just one of those players who arrives at the right time, at the right moment in big games.” De la Fuente further highlighted Merino’s versatility, suggesting he could excel as both a striker and a midfielder due to his understanding of the game.
Spain’s Path to the Semi-Finals
The opening goal for Spain was scored by Fabian Ruiz in the 30th minute. This came after Thibaut Courtois, Belgium’s longtime goalkeeper, parried a shot from Dani Olmo. However, Belgium’s Charles De Ketelaere equalized in the 41st minute with a header from Timothy Castagne‘s cross. This goal was the first conceded by Spain in the entire World Cup, ending a record streak of 649 minutes without conceding.
Lammens was brought into the game in the 71st minute after Courtois left with an apparent thigh injury. Despite Belgium’s desperate attempts to find an equalizer in the final minutes, Aymeric Laporte cleared their best chance out of the box.
Spain’s defensive performance has been strong throughout the tournament. However, their upcoming semi-final match will pit them against France, led by Kylian Mbappe, a team known for its high-scoring offense. This match is also anticipated to be a significant showdown between Mbappe and Spain’s young star, Lamine Yamal.
While other prominent players like Lionel Messi, Mbappe, Harry Kane, and Erling Haaland have made significant impacts in the tournament, Yamal has yet to fully shine as he did during Spain’s successful Euro 2024 campaign. He has scored one goal in six appearances at this World Cup.
Rooney acknowledged that even Messi can make incorrect decisions at times and pointed out that Yamal entered the tournament with an injury, still seeking his rhythm. Former Spain defender Cesar Azpilicueta also commented on Yamal’s influence, despite his lack of goals or assists, highlighting his ability to create space and his constant movement.
The upcoming semi-final against France is scheduled for Tuesday in Dallas.
Source: bbc.com
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